Pakistan Expected to Rotate Key Players in UAE Tri-Series

With the West Indies tour about to wrap up, Pakistan cricket fans won’t have to wait long for the next big announcement, as reports in the local media suggest that the squad for the UAE tri-nation series and the Asia Cup 2025 is just around the corner.

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Sources close to the team say the tri-series, featuring Afghanistan and the UAE, could see the return of more recent talent as the PCB eyes rest for their bowling unit. Pacer Salman Mirza and all-rounder Ahmed Daniyal, who impressed against Bangladesh, are tipped to make a return, adding depth to Pakistan’s bowling options.

But there’s also a twist: star fast bowlers Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf are expected to be given a rest for the tri-series, clearing the way for the newcomers. Their omission is part of their workload management, with both expected to be back in green for the Asia Cup, where Pakistan will need them at full throttle.

The selectors are also looking at taking 16 players instead of the usual 15, with head coach Mike Hesson and the captain finalising things once the West Indies tour ends.

One big boost for the team will be the comeback of Fakhar Zaman. The aggressive left-hander has been sidelined since a hamstring injury against the West Indies, but his recovery is said to be on track, and he’s expected to be fit for both the tri-series and the Asia Cup.

The PCB is expected to announce both the tri-nation series and Asia Cup squads in the coming week.

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The tri-series kicks off at Sharjah Cricket Stadium on 29 August, with Pakistan taking on Afghanistan under the lights. Each team will face the others twice before the top two sides meet in the final on 7 September.

For Pakistan, the Sharjah matches are more than just warm-ups. They’re a chance to fine-tune combinations, test bench strength, and send a warning shot to Asia Cup rivals.

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